Athyrium niponicum 'metallicum'
painted fern
This fern is deciduous so all its fronds will die back in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again each spring.
- Position: full or partial shade
- Soil: moist, fertile, neutral to acid soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Hardiness: fully hardy
The deeply cut, golden-green fronds of this elegant, deciduous fern, are flushed with silver and purple, which create a slightly ethereal quality. This makes it an excellent companion for shade-loving woodlanders, where it will offer a soft contrast to richer greens. It's also suitable for pots, so it's perfect for a partially shaded patio or courtyard garden. - Garden care: Incorporate lots of well-rotted leaf mould or garden compost into the planting hole. In cold areas in late autumn protect the crown of the plant with a dry mulch of straw or bracken.